PROTRUDING DRIP EDGE AND ROOF PROTECTION APPARATUS

Abstract

A drip edge and roof protection apparatus that can be used on a building roof to effectively direct water away from the roof and into a gutter system without compromising original shingle installation. The drip edge is designed with a first horizontal member and a second horizontal member, effectively parallel to one another and connected together, that fit under roofing shingles. An open U-shaped throat is configured to fit over an existing drip edge, and a downwardly extending leg (vertical member) with a flexible foot portion, referenced as the drip edge is present. It is compatible with different types of gutter designs and serves to prevent water from seeping between the fascia and the gutter wall, thus safeguarding the building from water damage and avoiding damage to the gutter caused by ice accumulation.

Description

FIELD OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of roofing components, and more specifically relates to a modified gutter drip edge, equipped with a protrusion, configured to enable the connection of gutter brackets to the edge of a roof without interfering with the water protection afforded by the shingled drip edge of the roof. The apparatus is equipped with an edge which protrudes out and away from the junction between the shingles and the roofing frame and is configured to sandwich around an interior edge of a gutter when applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

A drip edge is a small strip of metal or other semi-rigid material that is installed

on the edge of the roof, where the shingles meet the gutter. The purpose of a drip edge is to prevent water from seeping under the shingles and causing damage to the wooden structure of the roof. It also prevents water from running down the fascia and causing damage to the exterior of the structure.

The drip edge is an essential component of any roofing system, as it helps to protect the underlying structure from water damage. When a gutter expert comes in to install new gutters, one of the first things they will do is cut the drip edge to ensure that it doesn't interfere with the installation process. It's crucial that the gutter is longer than the drip edge, as this ensures that water will flow smoothly into the gutter and away from the roof. Unfortunately, during gutter installations, the drip edge can be bent instead of properly cut, which can cause issues. Similarly, problems arise when gutters are installed at corners of structures, as the pre-existing drip edge can become compromised during installation. If there were a better drip edge which was more suited to gutter installations, making them foolproof, such issues would be less prevalent.

Moreover, the drip edge provides an additional layer of protection against harsh weather conditions. However, one thing to keep in mind is that by installing the gutter underneath the drip edge, the backside of the gutter is in direct contact with wood. Therefore, it's essential to use quality materials that can withstand moisture and prevent rotting.

Unfortunately, most drip edges, if installed at all during gutter installation or reconstruction, tend to damage or at least interfere with the normal operation of the shingle or tile drip edge of the roof itself. This is often caused by the placement of gutter retaining brackets which are commonly disposed between the overhanging shingles and the roof frame. If there were a drip edge that enabled placement of such brackets without causing damage to the shingle edge, and was equipped with a protruding lip, water would be prevented from contacting the edge of the roof, and a functional drip edge could be maintained long term.

Thus, there is a need for a drip edge apparatus, configured to be placed between the overhanging shingles of a roof and the eave or roof frame, making the implementation and continued proper use of the drip edge foolproof for the gutter technician. Such an apparatus is equipped with a first protruding lip or edge disposed in communication with a first vertical member, a second protruding lip disposed in communication with a second vertical member, and a horizontal member. The vertical members are angled toward the eave, protecting the wood from water, while the horizontal member is configured to be disposed between the shingles and the roof frame. Indentations or cutouts may be present, at requisite intervals, to facilitate installation of a gutter via gutter brackets.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a gutter accessory apparatus configured to ensure sound

gutter installation to a roof of a residence or business. The apparatus is equipped with two mirrored and parallel protruding drip edges, each of which is disposed in connection with a vertical member, and a horizontal member. The apparatus is configured to be positioned under the overhanging shingles or tiles of a conventional roof and may be mounted in place between the roof frame and the overhanging shingles. The protruding drip edge ensures that, even after gutter installation (which can bend the overhanging shingles which amount to a default drip edge), the eaves and soffit of the structure remain dry as it protrudes out and away from the roof of the structure, and towards the gutter. In preferred installations of the present invention, the dual protruding drip edges, each extending from a vertical member, are configured to sandwich the interior edge of the gutter (closest to the structure) such that the interior edge of the gutter is disposed between the two vertical members.

Indentations and/or cutouts may be present along the top portion of the horizontal member to facilitate the placement of gutter retention brackets. The indentations are spaced in accordance with local regulations pertaining to the spacing of gutter brackets. Alternately, the present invention can be notched if needed for installation of the brackets (gutter hangers), preserving the integrity of the default drip edge.

In short, the present invention aims to ensure that gutters are installed correctly and easily by a gutter installer, as there is no need to cut the default shingle drip edge and so that the drip edge is only to be applied to the eaves where the gutters are installed, making it impossible for water to back up into the house if the gutter overflows.

The following brief and detailed descriptions of the drawings are provided to explain possible embodiments of the present invention but are not provided to limit the scope of the present invention as expressed herein this summary section.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate the present invention and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles of the invention and to enable a person skilled in the pertinent art to make and use the invention.

The present invention will be better understood with reference to the appended drawing sheets, wherein:

FIG. 1 details a view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention as seen from the side.

FIG. 2 shows a side perspective view of the apparatus of the present invention, detailing the design and angles of the present invention.

FIG. 3 shows a view of the side of the apparatus of the present invention as installed on a roof and gutter, detailing the interior edge of the gutter being sandwiched between the two vertical members of the drip edge of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The present specification discloses one or more embodiments that incorporate the features of the invention. The disclosed embodiment(s) merely exemplify the invention. The scope of the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiment(s).

References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment, Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

The present invention is a drip edge apparatus configured for use in gutter and roof installations. The present invention is equipped with a generally planar body (10) having a first vertical member (20), a first horizontal member (30), a first protruding drip edge (40). Mirroring this, while connected by an approximate 359-degree turnabout (90) in the material, a second vertical member (60), a second horizontal member (70), and a second protruding drip edge (80) are present. The vertical member (20) is preferably inclined slightly as shown in FIG. 1, to facilitate the application of pressure and/or to ensure that the vertical member (20) always presses towards the eave of the structure. A corner (50) is disposed at a junction between the first horizontal member (30) and the first vertical member (20). Likewise, a corner (50) is also present at a junction between the second horizontal member (70) and the second vertical member (60).

By nature of the positioning of the apparatus, the protruding drip edges (40, 80) supplements (or replaces if necessary) the default drip edge of the roof (conventionally present via a shingle overhang). Often, the facia metal doesn't extend all the way up to the shingles, as it is really only designed to cover the wood of the structure (roof frame). As such, there is often up to an inch of exposed wood present between the fascia and the default drip edge. It is at this segment of exposed wood that moisture from rain can seep into the structure and cause damage or premature roof wear. Per the implementation of the protruding drip edge (40) of the present invention, the gutter, once installed, is disposed under the protruding drip edge, and the roof and fascia metal maintain its default drip edge, ensuring that it is impossible for the gutter water to back up into the house in the event that the gutter overflows.

It should be noted that alternate embodiments of the present invention may exhibit different colors, textures, and patterns depicted on the apparatus. Further, alternate embodiments of the present invention may exhibit a longer or shorter vertical members (20, 60) to accommodate differing lengths of eave and/or fascia.

In proper installations of the present invention, the first vertical member (20), disposed in communication with the first drip edge (40) is configured to be placed inside of the gutter such that it remains in communication with an interior edge of the gutter (the edge closest to the roof of the structure), ensuring any water runs directly into the gutter, and not down the side of the structure. Meanwhile, the second vertical member (60) is configured to remain in communication with the eave (or side of the structure, frame, or roof, depending on installation). The second drip edge (80) the protrudes out towards the gutter, potentially contacting the gutter such that the interior edge of the gutter is sandwiched between the first drip edge (40) and the second drip edge (80) as shown in FIG. 3.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention are preferably constructed out of lightweight metal, such as aluminum or sheet metal. Other embodiments may be fashioned of copper, galvanized steel, or stainless steel. However, some alternate embodiments of the present invention are envisioned that are fashioned of silicone, UV resistant plastic, vinyl, or a similar lightweight material. Other embodiments may have a rubber, rubberized, or silicone component present.

In alternate embodiments of the present invention, the apparatus may exhibit a low-profile design which is ideal for a commercial installation in which the gutters are generally larger and remain level during installation. Further, in larger profile designs of the apparatus of the present invention, gutter installation is made safer for the underlying wood of the structure by design. When gutter hangers are in the way of the natural positioning of the default drip edge, installers may need to notch the traditional drip edge, compromising the underlying wood. In contrast, the apparatus of the present invention could be notched without compromising the efficacy of the drip edge, allowing an easier and safter installation. As with a traditional drip edge, the lower portion of the apparatus may still be bent around towards the soffit of the roof, preventing gaps on the corners of the roof.

Further, it should be understood that the overall dimensions of the apparatus of the present invention may be variable to account for differing roofing styles. In short, the present invention ensures protection of the roof framing of the structure from moisture while maintaining a functional and pleasing appearance. Installation of the present invention to a roof effectively procures a “double” drip edge, providing additional security of the roof from moisture in the event that the primary drip edge is compromised. Additionally, the present invention is effectively invisible when installed to a roof once the gutters are in position. It may be noted that the standard length for the drip edge (40) is ten feet, and the angle of the corner (50) present at the junction between the first vertical member (20) and the first horizontal member (30) is preferably 90 degrees, as shown in FIG. 2. However, there are several variations of style and shape that could be used. These variations may depend on the pitch of the roof, or other conditions that are unique to the specific installation.

Having illustrated the present invention, it should be understood that various adjustments and versions might be implemented without venturing away from the essence of the present invention. Further, it should be understood that the present invention is not solely limited to the invention as described in the embodiments above, but further comprises any and all embodiments within the scope of this application.

The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The exemplary embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

1. A drip edge apparatus for gutter and roof installations, comprising: a generally planar body having:a first vertical member;a first horizontal member connected to the first vertical member;a first protruding drip edge connected to the first horizontal member;a second vertical member;a second horizontal member connected to the second vertical member;a second protruding drip edge connected to the second horizontal member; andwherein the first vertical member and the second vertical member are connected by an approximate 359-degree turnabout in the material.

2. The drip edge apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first vertical member is inclined to facilitate application of pressure towards an eave of a structure.

3. The drip edge apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a first corner disposed at a junction between the first horizontal member and the first vertical member; anda second corner disposed at a junction between the second horizontal member and the second vertical member.

4. The drip edge apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first vertical member is configured to be placed inside a gutter in communication with an interior edge of the gutter.

5. The drip edge apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second vertical member is configured to remain in communication with an eave of a structure.

6. The drip edge apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first protruding drip edge and the second protruding drip edge are configured to sandwich an interior edge of a gutter between them.

7. The drip edge apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is constructed from a material selected from the group consisting of: aluminum, sheet metal, silicone, UV resistant plastic, and vinyl.

8. A method of installing a drip edge apparatus on a roof, comprising: providing a drip edge apparatus having a first vertical member, a first horizontal member, a first protruding drip edge, a second vertical member, a second horizontal member, and a second protruding drip edge;positioning the first vertical member inside a gutter such that it remains in communication with an interior edge of the gutter;positioning the second vertical member in communication with an eave of a structure; andsandwiching the interior edge of the gutter between the first protruding drip edge and the second protruding drip edge.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising notching the drip edge apparatus to accommodate gutter hangers without compromising the efficacy of the drip edge.

10. The method of claim 8, further comprising bending a lower portion of the drip edge apparatus around towards a soffit of the roof to prevent gaps on corners of the roof.

11. A drip edge system for protecting roof framing from moisture, comprising: a generally planar body having:a first vertical member;a first horizontal member connected to the first vertical member;a first protruding drip edge connected to the first horizontal member;a second vertical member;a second horizontal member connected to the second vertical member;a second protruding drip edge connected to the second horizontal member;wherein the first vertical member and the second vertical member are connected by a turnabout in the material; andwherein the system is configured to provide a double drip edge when installed on a roof.

12. The drip edge system of claim 11, wherein the first protruding drip edge is configured to supplement or replace a default drip edge of the roof.

13. The drip edge system of claim 11, wherein the system is configured to cover exposed wood between fascia metal and a default drip edge of the roof.

14. The drip edge system of claim 11, wherein the system is configured to prevent gutter water from backing up into a structure in the event of gutter overflow.

15. The drip edge system of claim 11, wherein the system exhibits a low-profile design suitable for commercial installations with larger-than-standard gutters.

16. The drip edge system of claim 11, wherein the system is configured to be effectively invisible when installed on a roof with gutters in position.

17. The drip edge system of claim 12, wherein the system is configured to cover exposed wood between fascia metal and a default drip edge of the roof; and wherein the system is configured to prevent gutter water from backing up into a structure in the event of gutter overflow.